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What is addiction?

“Addiction is a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing rewards and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors.”

“Addiction is characterized by inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavioral control, craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with one’s behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and a dysfunctional emotional response”

“Like other chronic diseases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and remission. Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or premature death.”

New definition of Addiction-American Society of Addiction Medicine, 2011

Per the Massachusetts Department of Public Health the number of unintentional opioid-related deaths in Plymouth County continues to rise.

2013 - 86 deaths

2014 - 112 deaths

2015 - 178 deaths

2016 - 194 deaths

Opioids include heroin, opioid-based prescription painkillers and other unspecified opioids. Data for 2014-2016 are preliminary and subject to updates, as a large number of death certificates have yet to be assigned a final cause of death code.

The Massachusetts Opioid Epidemic - A data visualization of findings from the Chapter 55 ReportRead More

The Plymouth County Drug Abuse Task Force is comprised of leaders from law enforcement, public safety, legislative, medical, education and advocacy communities. These leaders meet regularly to share information and track the current trends of the opioid epidemic within Plymouth County.

The Goals of the Task Force

Effectively direct efforts by public and volunteer groups.

Coordinate aid responses already in place.

Facilitate new prevention ideas to save more lives.

Assist caregivers in identifying resources.

Promote treatment options to provide care in a timely manner.

Reduce the stigma associated with substance abuse.

Enhance communication and continual conversation.

A new series taking on the opioid epidemic impacting our communities

withPlymouth County District Attorney Tim CruzandPlymouth County Sheriff Joe McDonald